FrancoFiles

Constitutional Crossroads: France and America, with Jeffrey Rosen Oct 04, 2023

Adopted 170 years apart, grown from similar philosophical roots, and shaped by different histories–a comparative examination of the French and the US Constitutions yields fascinating takeaways about the norms in the two nations.

Featuring guests:

Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center
Florence Hermite, Head of the French Embassy's Justice Department

Freedom of the Press & Tomorrow’s Journalism with The Texas Tribune boss Sewell Chan Sep 22, 2023

Sewell Chan is the Editor in Chief of the nonprofit and nonpartisan The Texas Tribune newsroom. During The Texas Tribune Festival 2023, hear his thoughts on rising disinfo and the breakdown of local news as well as his hopes for the industry.

Nicolas Maubert: From the High Seas to Outer Space Aug 01, 2023

From the depth of space to the far reaches of the Atlantic, Space Counselor to the French Embassy and CNES Representative in the US Nicolas Maubert is an expert in exploring the unknown. At his day job, he’s seen legends like Thomas Pesquet off into space, and in his free time, he’s explored the high seas on solo missions.

Listen to our conversation with this fascinating colleague, out now on the French Embassy's Podcast.

Behind the scenes at DC’s National Zoo lab: Bringing the next generation of species to life Jun 05, 2023

Pierre Comizzoli specializes in preserving biological samples from wild animal species–for genetic analysis, for population management and to produce offspring.

He has a unique skill set, but his job threatens a special kind of pressure: the push for perfection when trying to ensure the next generation of the scarcest populations in the world.

On the FrancoFiles Podcast, find out what he does behind the scenes of the National Zoo to keep endangered species alive.

Aurélie Jean: Decoding Algorithms Mar 09, 2023

A fascinating conversation with Aurélie Jean, accomplished computational scientist, entrepreneur and author who splits her time between the US and France. Aurélie has worked at both MIT and Bloomberg and wears many hats (consultant, researcher, teacher, tech and science advisor, board member, investor and editorial contributor) while using her platform to advocate for women in STEM.

On FrancoFiles Podcast, Aurélie decodes the daunting world of algorithms and artificial intelligence, debunking common misconceptions and shining light on potentially life-saving uses. From ChatGTP to TikTok to cancer detection, discover how this technology directly impacts and informs our daily lives.

Simone Veil: Woman of the Century, with Elsa Zylberstein Dec 12, 2022

Season Four of FrancoFiles kicks off with the biopic, "Simone: Woman of the Century," featuring the film's star and creator Elsa Zylberstein. Discover the relevance of Simone Veil's story in today's political climate and Elsa's emotional connection to the role.

Season Finale: Astronaut Thomas Pesquet and Crew Jun 23, 2022

Astronauts Thomas Pesquet (France), Megan McArthur (USA), Shane Kimbrough (USA) and Aki Hoshide (Japan) unite to talk about their SpaceX Crew-2 mission, life on the ISS and building international, cross-cultural friendships.

Leila Slimani: Unveiling Structures of Power May 27, 2022

Hear from Leila Slimani, one of France's leading voices in feminism and human rights, on structures of power. The bestselling author and Prix Goncourt winner in conversation with MSNBC Host Symone Sanders, available now.

Two Nations, One Goal: Facing Terrorism without Fear Apr 28, 2022

The French Museum and Memorial on Terrorism is set to open in 2027. Its goal is to fight fear, to educate and to honor victims. Executive Director Elisabeth Pelsez and Historian Henry Rousso join Executive VP of the New York National September 11 Museum and Memorial Cliff Chanin to discuss their shared challenges and successes.

EU Explainer: Trade in a Time of War, with Cecilia Malmström Apr 13, 2022

Former member of the European Commission and European Parliament Cecilia Malmström has negotiated on behalf of 27 member states at the WTO and navigated tricky transatlantic deals. On this special EU Explainer episode, Malmström examines the role the world can play in the Ukraine crisis through trade. Europe and the US are pivotal players in keeping goods flowing, and making sure food and other commodities are saving lives.

Serge Bromberg: Lost and Found Films and Méliès Movie Magic Mar 23, 2022

Serge Bromberg sees the silver screen as a window into a bygone world, and he wants to open it wider. A French cinephile and modern-day-Indiana Jones, Bromberg has dedicated his life to finding and restoring lost classic films. From the masterpieces of Georges Méliès, to performances of Josephine Baker, to historic reels of France recovering from WWII, he has seen and showcased many pieces assumed to be vanished in time. Listen as he details his work, dives into the history of French film and even tells the story of the first 3D major motion picture.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Hope for an Authentic Story Mar 02, 2022

Prolific author, TedTalk speaker, feminist and activist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is known globally for her moving narratives on identity and acceptance. On the FrancoFiles Podcast, Chimamanda examines the traditional portrayal (or lack of portrayal) of African American history in the US. In an era of book banning and cancel culture, she encourages listeners to look past polarized politics to create authentic and engaging representations of stories whose impact is still seen and felt today.

Un Village Français: French WWII Drama Wins US Audience and Award Feb 16, 2022

Un Village Français shows the harsh reality WWII German-occupied-France through the eyes of ordinary people thrust into unimaginable circumstances. In this seven-season epic drama, a small town grapples with issues of morality and authority in the face of atrocity, each citizen carrying the flag of both resistor and collaborator. The show is striking in its realism and has sparked conversation around a contested period of history. Join us as we discuss the curation of this show with creator and producer Emmanuel Daucé and actress Marie Kremer following their reception of the America Abroad Media Award.

The Will to See: Bernard-Henri Lévy Feb 02, 2022

The philosopher, writer and correspondent who has been a voice in France for decades has a new book and documentary that he hopes will shake the world out of complacency. Bernard-Henri Lévy accuses people of not paying attention to horrible events around the world, and says it’s time we do something about that.

EU Explainer: The French Presidency of the EU Council and its Impact on the US Jan 28, 2022

We're starting off a new year with a new presidency in the Council of the European Union. This time France has stepped into the leadership role.

Sex, Style and Stereotypes: the creator of Emily in Paris Dec 15, 2021

We kick off our third season with a sneak peek at the upcoming season of the wildly popular Emily in Paris. Host Tracey Madigan speaks to Darren Star, the creator of the Netflix smash, and actor William Abadie, who explains why he has a special place in his heart for the U.S.

Diane von Furstenberg — Vive La Liberty with a Fashionable Godmother Jun 15, 2021

For the Season 2 finale of the FrancoFiles Podcast, the team is joined by the “Woman in Charge” Diane von Furstenberg. This title is a self-ordained and true testament to the success she has had as a fashion designer, entrepreneur and a strong female icon. In February 2020, Diane was awarded with France’s highest honor–the Légion d'Honneur–for her life’s work in breaking the boundaries of women’s fashion to encourage self-expression and freedom through her designs like her iconic wrap dress. Her commitment to woman-celebrating ideals fueled her support for the major development in philanthropy for the Statue of Liberty Museum inaugurated in 2019 on Liberty Island. As the US prepares for the arrival of one of the eight Bartholdi Statue of Liberty originals from Paris, the team talks to Diane about the revival of this historic journey but more profoundly, what Lady Liberty, in all her shapes and sizes, means to all of us.

Out of this World — International Cooperation in Space Jun 01, 2021

In this installment of the FrancoFiles Podcast, we chat with Anthony Tsougranis, an International Programs Specialist at NASA. He is at the forefront of supporting projects with European and international space organizations like CNES, the French Space Agency, and ESA, the European Space Agency, both of which we will virtually visit in this episode. With Anthony, we also explore topics like recent Franco-American partnerships with SpaceX, the SuperCam on the Mars Perseverance Rover and then much anticipated international missions like the launch of the James Webb telescope from French Guiana and the FIRST woman on the moon. Any one of those achievements would be a stellar feat, but it’s just another day at the office for Anthony and his colleagues. Enjoy this out-of-this-world episode on the final frontier!

France-Amérique Magazine — From French Resistance to Cultural Diplomacy May 18, 2021

On this episode of FrancoFiles, we speak with the director of France-Amérique, Guénola Pellen, on the magazine that is a steady and unshaking voice for the Francophone and Francophile community in the US. Founded in 1943 by French exiles, France-Amérique was born into an era of restoration that called for strong Franco-American friendship. Acting as a transatlantic liaison, the magazine brought news, culture and ideas from across the ocean to communities alike. It quickly gained a strong footing and flourished, keeping its original purpose of cultural diplomacy while exploring creative avenues of storytelling. Today, the publication is bilingual and catches the eye of a linguistically diverse audience due to its stunning cover illustrations and exclusive interviews. Sit back and enjoy the story of France-Amérique explored by FrancoFiles and Guénola.

La Cuisine Paris — An Epicurean Exchange May 04, 2021

Go behind the pastry counter and into the kitchen with La Cuisine Paris! This English-language cooking school seeks to immerse Francophiles in the French savoir-faire with curated, hands-on cultural experiences. Founded by small-business supporter, Jane Bertch and her staff have curated a fine selection of classes covering everything from savory to sweet, taught by French chefs for a variety of skill levels. La Cuisine Paris even takes to the streets to teach newcomers how to appreciate and navigate outdoor markets, participate in food tours, all while supporting small businesses and artisans! Explore with FrancoFiles and Jane Bertch the meaning of building a business based on the exchange of culinary experiences and French culture through la cuisine.

BD and Comic Book Culture – Views from a Chevalier U.S. Cartoonist Apr 20, 2021

French-language comics, or bande dessinée, are a beloved piece of media around the world. Classics are still popular today, and modern creatives continue to build on the genre's vast body of work. To learn more about popular BD culture in France, we spoke with Matt Madden, a US cartoonist and creator of "99 Ways to Tell a Story: Exercises in Style" a playful exploration of Raymond Queneau's Exercices de style. Madden shares his views about the French “ninth art” and his experiences working in Angoulême, city of the second largest comics festival in Europe. As a translator, a teacher, a U.S. Correspondent of Oubapo and a French knight in the Order of Arts and Letters, Matt dives into the importance of cartoons and the opportunity they give to challenge the limits of one's creativity and imagination.

Elaine in Paris — A Francophile journey Apr 06, 2021

American-Parisian Elaine Sciolino has spent much of her career writing love letters to the City of Lights. An accomplished author and a former Paris Bureau chief for the New York Times, Elaine has spent many years chronicling French culture, life and politics for both French and American audiences. Her ability to translate concepts across cultures has earned her the chevalier of the Legion of Honor for fostering Franco-American friendship, and she is seen as a valuable American ally to France. On this episode of the #FrancoFiles Podcast, we listened to this master storyteller and true Francophile recount her tale of her time in Paris.

La French Tech — The New French Revolution Mar 09, 2021

"The New French Revolution" that's the name given to La French Tech, a government initiative of France, one of the few in the world that has dedicated a national strategy to support French start-ups in hubs around the world, including in the US. The leader of this pro-business movement is Director Kat Borlongan, a Filipino-French citizen whose cross-cultural experience and vision for innovation is putting the already-accelerating tech movement in France on the map. Working with teams in France and in the U.S., Kat is broadening the scope and influence of French entrepreneurship and the broader startup culture by promoting diversity and challenging the discourse around women leaders.

The Lafayette Trail — Following America's Favorite Frenchman Feb 23, 2021

It's a noble thing to follow in the footsteps of your hero, and Julien Icher has taken this notion a step further. His nonprofit, the Lafayette Trail, retraces the 1824-1825 Farewell Tour of famed Franco-American hero General Lafayette. Julien is a French geographer and historian who is fascinated by the Marquis' visit that united the U.S. during a trying time. An advocate of Franco-American history and friendship, Julien is forming relationships across the U.S. by placing commemorative markers in towns that hosted Lafayette and bringing to light Lafayette's profound influence in American history. Listen to learn more about Icher's journey and America's favorite Frenchman.

STATION F — Based in Paris, the world's largest startup campus Feb 09, 2021

The world’s largest startup campus is a Franco-American marvel. In the heart of Paris in a renovated train station, STATION F is captained by Roxanne Varza, an Iranian-American who is passionate about getting young businesses the resources they need to thrive. She works hard to create an environment where unicorns can brush elbows with the world’s top leaders–all this while leading nonprofits that get female entrepreneurs the equal recognition and representation they deserve. Listen as we speak with Roxanne about what it’s like to be the builder of an entrepreneurial ecosystem and the “room where it happens.”

The American Library in Paris — After the darkness of war, the light of books Jan 26, 2021

The American Library in Paris is a testament to Franco-American tenacity. Founded and maintained by bibliophiles committed to freedom of thought and open discussion, this institution survived great hardship to provide a haven to those in need. From famous expatriates like Stein and Hemingway to today's modern bestselling authors, the library has been an arena of inspiration and conversation since its founding during World War I. Learn more from the library's director: Texan Audrey Chapuis.

Villa San Francisco — Engaging artists and community worldwide Jan 12, 2021

Villa San Francisco is a French-founded international space for dialogue between artists and community seeking to connect innovative ideas to solutions that respond to global and local challenges. Today, we speak with Melanie Desliens Flint, a founding member of Villa San Francisco and an integral part of the international Villa Network's expansion to the United States.

Bastille Day – Then & Now – The history & present culture of France’s National Day Jul 01, 2020

IN DEPTH – “Is it a revolt? No, sire, it is a revolution!” Hop on this time-machine as we take you back to July 14, 1789 with special guest Gary Girod of the ‘French History Podcast’. Explore & understand the series of events leading up to the storming of the ‘Bastille’ and how it forever changed the tides of history. Learn about the profound social effect of France’s National Day post-WWI and the present-day celebrations on the Champs-Elysées.

"We Return Fighting" — WWI and the experiences of African Americans at home and in France Feb 27, 2020

IN DEPTH – Dive with us into the profound and differing experiences of African Americans in France and in the U.S. during World War I. Gain insight into this particular and important part of our shared history with guest curator, Krewasky Salter from the Smithsonian exhibit "We Return Fighting - World War I and the Shaping of Modern Black Identity" shown at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

The Michelin Guide – How a French tire company became the world’s leader in food excellence. Nov 07, 2019

IN SHORT – For the past 14 years, Michelin Guide has brought its team of incognito restaurant reviewers and experts to explore the delectable and wide-array of restaurant options in the United States. Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes episode with Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director for The Michelin Guide, as he reveals the how the red guide has brought “France to the US” and how its influence has transformed consumers’ restaurant experiences and altogether the fine dining industry.

Biodiversity – What have we done? What can be done? Two scientists answer our questions. Jul 25, 2019

IN DEPTH – You’ve heard the word "biodiversity" countless times: on the news, on political speeches, in decisions-maker meetings... What does it mean? As voices for biodiversity and the planet continue to grow louder, we sat down with a French and an American scientist to know what is actually at stake. Fighting inequalities related to environmental degradation is a priority of the French Presidency of the G7, that's why the Environment Ministers from the G7 Member States and other countries or institutions signed the Metz Charter on Biodiversity in May 2019.

Discover the Residence of France! The DC mansion has become a hot spot for the French-American bond. Jul 11, 2019

IN SHORT – You’ve most definitely heard about the events held in that amazing place! Located in the Kalorama area in DC, the Residence of France is one of the most impressive mansion in DC. The French tricolor flag has flown over the Kalorama Residence for more than three-quarter of a century. Its is a place of welcome and of celebration, but above all a symbol of the strength of the ties that bind France and the US. Interested in knowing the behind the scene organisation, staring protocol rules and famous attendees?

Relive D-Day through the voices and testimonies of those who made and embodied this epic History. Jun 06, 2019

IN DEPTH: “It was quite a day. When we approached, the entire horizon was red from bombing and bombs exploding, it was almost like a movie screen” veteran John Siewert, who was on the USS Satterlee on June 6, 1944 told us. We sat with History makers and tellers to revive memories of D-DAY, as President Trump and President Macron marked the 75th anniversary of D-Day in France this year. James Earl “Bud” Rudder, Jr., also shared the great story of his father, a heroic D-Day Veteran Army Ranger. Major General Andrew Davis, President and CEO of the World War II Foundation, reminded us why keeping the WWII memory alive is so important for our society.

Reflect on why Notre-Dame fire moved so many with WaPo Pulitzer Prize-winner & cathedral's organist May 14, 2019

IN DEPTH: The Embassy of France was deeply touched by the numerous messages of support received after the tragedy that hit the iconic Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral. Philip Kennicott, Pulitzer Prize-winning art and architecture critic of The Washington Post and Johann Vexo, organist for the choir organ at Notre-Dame cathedral, share their thoughts on why it moved hearts everywhere.

Discover La Maison Française, hot spot for culture, debates & the French-American bond in D.C. May 01, 2019

IN SHORT: Does "La Maison Française" or "The French House" ring a bell? You might not be familiar with the name -- but you've most definitely heard about the events. Located on Embassy grounds, La Maison Française celebrates the longstanding relationship between France and the USA. It offers a rich and diverse array of cultural, scientific, sport and gastronomic programs to many Washingtonians and great facilities to accommodate all sorts of events.

Consulate 101: learn the ins & the outs and what the consulate can do for you Mar 30, 2019

IN SHORT: You've heard the word -- but do you really know know what a Consulate does? Get an insider's perspective and explore the world of consular affairs in this episode of FrancoFiles. Plus, test your knowledge and see if you can figure out what's true and what's false when it comes to consular issues!

Tune in: the history and impact of African Americans in Paris after WWI Feb 28, 2019

IN DEPTH: Uncover the rich history of African Americans in Paris and the beginnings of an African-American community in the aftermath of World War I. Dr. Tristan Cabello, Assistant Director of the Master of Liberal Arts Program at Johns Hopkins University shares the story of how black culture was born in the City of Lights.

Get an inside scoop of the crisis of Multilateralism Jan 17, 2019

IN DEPTH: Is multilateralism in freefall? Get an inside look at the multilateralism crisis and hear from experts at the French Embassy, including French Ambassador Gérard Araud and Director of the International Institutions and Global Governance Program Stewart Patrick.

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